Senate votes to slow closing of post offices

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Postal service

Senate votes to slow closing of post offices

Postal service

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Postal Service is criticizing a bill passed by the Senate that would delay closings of thousands of low-revenue post offices and mail processing centers.

In a blunt statement, the board of governors for the mail agency said the measure “falls far short” and would do little to stem financial losses. The board also called the Senate bill “totally inappropriate,” saying it would keep unneeded mail facilities open.

Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe said if the bill became law, the agency would return to Congress in a few years to get emergency help.

The Senate bill, which passed Wednesday, April 25th gives the mail agency an $11 billion cash infusion but bars many closings, requiring further studies instead. The measure now goes to the House, which has yet to consider a separate bill.